Good-for-you alternatives are available at Taste of Chicago

June 24, 2010

Healthy dining and Taste of Chicago are not mutually exclusive concepts. For the third year, Humana has identified its Healthier Choices restaurants at the Taste.

All the identified restaurants offer at least one item that meets its nutritional, calorie and sodium standards. Appetizers have fewer than 320 calories and no more than 300 milligrams of sodium. Main courses have fewer than 450 calories and no more than 500 mg of sodium. Desserts have fewer than 150 calories and no more than 20 mg of sodium.

Surprisingly, the barbecued turkey leg at Manny's is on the list, but with an important qualifier. The turkey leg is only healthy with the skin removed. Manny's owner Ken Raskin says removing the skin will be done on request.

The healthy eater will want to steer clear of Taste's desserts; the only qualifying dessert was the fresh-fruit assortment at Dominick's.

Other items at Taste may fall within the nutritional guidelines; Humana's list was based on information voluntarily submitted by participating restaurants.